Sony preps pair of PS3 3D updates

Sony has roadmapped two key PlayStation 3 firmware updates that will bring stereoscopic 3D functionality to the games console.

Why it takes two updates isn't clear, but that's how many Sony plans to release. The first will be pushed out before June to allow the consoles to play stereoscopic 3D games - for which you'll need a suitable 3D TV, of course.

The second update's release window is less tightly defined: sometime "within 2010" was all Sony said today. It will upgrade the console's Blu-ray Disc sub-system to enable support for 3D BD movies.

News of the upgrades emerged as Sony set out its stall to bring 3D content into the home in June. It hopes to tap into World Cup fever to encourage footie fans to upgrade their old CRT tellies and not-so-ancient LCD TVs to new 3D-capable models.

As a carrot for PS3 owners, Sony said it will offer anyone who buys one of its 3D TVs free stereoscopic 3D gaming content, downloaded through the PlayStation Network. It will include versions of Wipeout HD and Super Stardust HD. It also touted 3D versions of Pain and MotorStorm Pacific Rift, but a look at the small-print reveals that it's only giving away demos. ®